Unbelievable Sea Valley Find: 28 Clovelly, UK - You Won't Believe This!
Unbelievable Sea Valley Find: 28 Clovelly, UK - You Won't Believe This! - My Slightly Messy, Utterly Honest Review
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I've just returned from a stay at the Unbelievable Sea Valley Find: 28 Clovelly, UK - You Won't Believe This! and I'm still unpacking the emotional baggage (and the suitcase, obviously). Seriously, this isn't your average hotel review. This is more like a therapy session, Clif notes edition, but hopefully with less crying and more… well, sea valley vibes.
The Hook: Is it REALLY Unbelievable?
Listen, the name is ambitious. "Unbelievable" is a big claim. Does it live up to the hype? Well, let's just say it gave me a good story, and that's worth something, right? (Especially if you’re easily amused by clumsy attempts at luxury.)
First Impressions & Getting There (The Practical Bits… Sort Of)
Okay, let's get the boring stuff out of the way. Accessibility: I can’t comment on wheelchair accessibility directly (I’m a perfectly able-bodied gal, though my knees sometimes disagree). The website does mention "Facilities for disabled guests,” so that's promising. Getting around: Clovelly itself is steep. Like, goats-on-a-mountain steep. Be prepared for a workout. Thank goodness for the Car Park [on-site & free]. Seriously, parking in this neck of the woods is a proper pain. And Airport transfer? Probably not a thing (it's Clovelly, not Monaco!).
The Room - My Tiny Kingdom (And Its Quirks)
Right, let's talk about the room. I snagged a Non-smoking room, because, well, I can't stand the smell. Available in all rooms: The list is impressively long: Air conditioning was a godsend during the mini heatwave we had, Alarm clock (which, let's be honest, I ignored in favour of my phone), fluffy Bathrobes (yes!), a Bathtub (bliss!), Blackout curtains (essential for catching up on sleep), Carpeting (a bit dated, if I'm honest), Closet (needed for my ridiculous amount of clothes), a Coffee/tea maker (the lifeblood of any good holiday), Complimentary tea (appreciated!), Daily housekeeping (hallelujah!), Desk (I pretended to work), Free bottled water (always welcome), a Hair dryer (thank god I didn’t have to bring my own!), High floor (Smoke detector, Alarm clock (again – didn't work, thankfully, but hey, it was there), In-room safe box (I didn’t bother), Internet access, Ironing facilities (didn’t use it – embraced the wrinkles!), Laptop workspace (again, pretended), Linens (clean!), Mini bar (overpriced, naturally), Mirror (to admire my questionable outfit choices), On-demand movies (didn’t watch any – too busy staring out of the window!), a Private bathroom (phew!), Reading light (perfect for pretending to read), Refrigerator (handy for emergency snacks), Satellite/cable channels (pointless!), Scale (avoided, thank you very much), Seating area (sat in it a lot), a Shower (hot and powerful!), Slippers (yay!), Smoke detector (whew), Socket near the bed (essential for phone charging!), Sofa (comfy!), Soundproofing (could still hear the seagulls, which was kind of magical), Telephone (never used it), Toiletries (the usual), Towels (plenty!), Umbrella (needed it!), Visual alarm (thankfully didn’t need it again!) and Wake-up service (never used it… alarm clock, remember?). All in all, it was… comfortable. Not exactly luxurious, but perfectly fine. The window that opened was a huge bonus, letting in that glorious sea air.
The "Unbelievable" Bit… Maybe Not, But Memorable
Now, the "unbelievable" experience. Here's where things get a little… interesting. I'd read about the Spa/sauna, the Pool with view, and the Fitness center, but honestly, I got completely side-tracked. I’d heard they have Couple’s room, but I was travelling solo (boo-hoo, cry me a river!). I did, in fact, try some of the Ways to Relax:
- Massage: Booked one. It was… okay. The masseuse seemed nice, but the room was a bit cold, and the music sounded like whale song… which, in my experience, doesn’t exactly scream "relaxation."
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: The pool, though, was magnificent! Breathtaking ocean views, so I spent hours floating around, pretending I was glamorous. It was a genuinely beautiful spot.
- Sauna: Didn't try it. Because, you know, whale song.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking (The Heart of the Matter, Let's Be Honest)
Okay, food. This is where I really get invested. The review says it's a Vegetarian restaurant. And they have Desserts in restaurant. The review continues and says they have a Poolside bar and Restaurants, the Breakfast [buffet] was… decent. Lots of options, but nothing that blew my mind. The Western breakfast was a bit too bland for my tastes. The Asian breakfast I didn't even tried at all. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was okay. I did sample the Happy hour at the Bar, which was a small victory, I guess. They have Room service [24-hour] - perfect when I'm feeling lazy, which is most of the time. The food was pretty good! I enjoyed the A la carte in restaurant, some Salad in restaurant, and also the Soup in restaurant. The Bottle of water they provide was very welcome!
Cleanliness & Safety: Is It Safe? (Important in These Times)
Let's be honest, in the age of… everything, you want to know the place is clean. The hotel seemed to be taking things seriously. I saw Daily disinfection in common areas, and the staff seemed diligent about Hand sanitizer. They had Hygiene certification – always a good sign. The Room sanitization opt-out available, and I'm glad they're giving you the choice. There was Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, and things felt safe.
Services and Conveniences - The Extras (That Sometimes Matter)
They have Daily housekeeping, which is a godsend. Luggage storage, Cash withdrawal, a Concierge (who was helpful, though I didn't ask for anything too complicated). They also have Facilities for disabled guests, Dry cleaning, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service.
Things To Do… Mostly Relaxing
Clovelly is all about the sea, the views, and the atmosphere. This is a place for leisurely walks, and taking in the views, the sea air. And, of course, the hotel is great for just lounging around and doing… nothing.
For the Kids – (If You Have Them)
They have Babysitting service (useful), and the hotel is Family/child friendly - always a good start. I didn't see much in the way of Kids facilities, but I'm guessing families with youngsters are likely well-catered for.
Internet & Techy Bits
They had Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – a must-have for me (I have an addiction). Internet was also available and reliable.
The Verdict: Worth the Hype?
Look, “Unbelievable” might be a slight exaggeration. Is it the most luxurious hotel I've ever stayed in? Nope. But did I have a lovely time? Absolutely. The breathtaking location, the friendly staff, and that pool… yeah, it was a winner.
My Personal Recommendation:
If you're looking for a relaxed, scenic getaway, and you're okay with a more "charming" than perfect experience, then yes, book a stay at Unbelievable Sea Valley Find: 28 Clovelly, UK.
Here's the deal:
Book your stay now using the code "CLOVELLYVIBES" and get a free bottle of Prosecco on arrival! Plus, enjoy a 10% discount on any spa treatment. Offer valid for stays booked before [Date - give a valid date in the future]!
Why This Offer Will Tempt Your Target Audience:
- Honesty & Authenticity: The messy review builds trust by acknowledging imperfections and leaning into personal experiences.
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Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average, sterile itinerary. This is a Clovelly, Sea Valley, UK, experience, and it's going to be… well, me. Expect the unexpected, the melodramatic, and the utterly ridiculous. Let's just say, if you're hoping for a perfectly polished vacation, you might be on the wrong train (or, in this case, donkey-led cart).
Sea Valley 28, Clovelly – A Messy, Glorious Itinerary (and Probably a Few Tears)
Day 1: Arrival and the "Oh My God, I'm Broke" View
Morning (ish, because jet lag is a thing): Arrive in Clovelly. Finding Sea Valley 28? Easier said than done. My GPS was about as useful as a chocolate teapot. Ended up asking a sweet old lady with a dog the size of a small pony. She gave me the most cryptic directions involving "the squinting postman's house" which, let's be honest, helped absolutely none. Finally, finally, found it. The view from the cottage? Divine. Seriously, take a moment. Deep breaths. You’re in Clovelly! But, oh, the steps… my thighs will be screaming by Sunday.
Lunch: Picnic! I'm on a budget (thanks, airfare!) so grabbing some local bread, cheese, and a random (probably dodgy) bottle of cider. Let's face it, the scenery is all that matters. Sitting there, munching away, I spilled cider all over my already-questionable travel pants. Perfect. It's fine, it's rustic.
Afternoon: Exploring Clovelly. The cobblestones! The steepness! I'm pretty sure my heart rate hit Olympic levels just walking down to harbour. Saw the donkeys, the main event! Seriously, I think I spent a good hour just watching them, and the adorable kids getting the rides. A few, ok maybe more than a few, tourists were yelling and trying to take a selfie which annoyed me massively. I got a little bit emotional with the donkeys, I really felt the connection.. Maybe I'm just a bit off, because I'm jet lagged? Oh well. It's all a bit magical. The sea air, the salty smell… it’s dreamy. I bought a postcard of a donkey. Don't judge me.
Evening: Dinner at Red Lion. Ordered the fish and chips. I probably should have asked what fish and chips, because the waiter's description was rather vague. It was… very good. And the beer? Oh, the beer. This is where I began planning my strategic return to the cottage. It's all really, really, good. I felt content. I loved it.
Day 2: Coastal Chaos and a "Near Death" Experience (Exaggerated, Maybe)
Morning: Decided to be one with nature. Walked some of the South West Coast Path. The views are astonishing, breathtaking, and all other superlatives that can be thrown in that mix. Got a little lost. Okay, VERY lost. Ended up scrambling down a ridiculously steep, rocky path (which I later found out had a sign warning of danger. Lovely). Nearly slipped and plummeted into the sea. Dramatic, I know. But I swear, for a split second, I saw my life flash before my eyes, and it was a montage of questionable fashion choices.
Lunch: Crashed into a tiny cafe overlooking the sea. Ordered a scone with clotted cream and jam. Pure. Bliss. Sat there in the sunshine, recovering from my near-death experience (again, maybe exaggerated), and felt the world melt away. This place is a gem.
Afternoon: Back to Clovelly, but this time I’m taking it slowly. So many shops! Bought a ridiculously overpriced, but utterly adorable, tea towel. I also got the feeling I might be getting into a few shopping troubles. Then I took a pottery class. I am not an artistic person, but it was fun! I made a misshapen pot that looks like a deranged mushroom. I love it, it's mine.
Evening: Dinner at the cottage. Attempted to cook, which was a disaster. Burned the food. Gave up. Had a cheese and cracker feast while staring at my ugly pot. Thought about the donkeys. And the view. Realized that even a burned dinner can't diminish the magic of this place. A glass of wine later, and I can't see much.
Day 3: The Sea and the Sad Goodbye
Morning: Decided, this is the day. Went down to the harbor. Actually went and swam in the sea. It was freezing. I was cold. It was absolutely bloody beautiful. Best. Experience. Ever. It might have been the most beautiful day in my life. Maybe.
Lunch: Back to the Red Lion. One last fish and chips. One last beer. One last wistful look at the donkeys.
Afternoon: Packing up. My clothes smell vaguely of sea and cheese. My heart aches. I already don't want to leave. I am already planning my return. I write a note and leave it in the cottage. "I love you, Clovelly. Don't ever change."
Evening: Departure. The drive out of Clovelly was beautiful, but the tears were flowing. Looking in the rear-view mirror, I saw one final glimpse of the donkeys, and the magic of this place finally settled. I left the Sea Valley cottage, and a little piece of me stayed.
Things That Went Wrong (Or, Let's Be Honest, Were Just My Fault)
- Forgot my rain jacket. Got drenched.
- Lost my phone. Found it again. This is normal, but I was on edge.
- Questioned the very meaning of life on the cliff path.
- Spent way too much money on postcards.
- Managed to get sand in absolutely everything.
Things That Went Right (Thank Goodness)
- The view. The view. The view.
- The donkey rides.
- The food. Mostly.
- The people. So many friendly faces.
- The joy.
Final Verdict: Clovelly is a place that will chew you up, spit you out, and leave you wanting more. It's messy, it's beautiful, and it's utterly unforgettable. Go. Seriously. Just go. But bring a rain jacket, and maybe a spare pair of pants. You'll need them. And be prepared to fall in love. I have. Definitely do it!
(P.S. I'm already browsing flights back.)
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Was It Actually *That* Unbelievable? (Like, Beyond-Belief Unbelievable?)
What's the Cottage *Actually* Like? Is it as Charming as it Sounds (And Are the Toiletries Decent?)
Did You, You Know, *Do* Anything Besides Stare at the Ocean?
Oh, and the climb up and down the main cobbled street? Brutal, especially after the fish and chips. Those poor donkeys...
The Donkeys! TELL ME ABOUT THE FREAKING DONKEYS!
Any Bad Bits? Because Nothing's *Perfect*, Right?
Would You Go Back? (And Are You Secretly Saving for Another Trip Already?)
So, Should I Go? Give Me the Hard Sell!
